Hidden Gems of Uganda, known as the ‘Pearl of Africa,’ showcase its incredible natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Despite being under the radar compared to neighboring Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda possesses breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences waiting to be discovered.
Exploring these Hidden Gems of Uganda reveals surprising and curiosity-inducing facts, proving that this stunning landlocked nation deserves the spotlight. From scenic wonders to remarkable wildlife, Uganda truly offers unforgettable adventures for every traveller.
15 Cool And Surprising Facts About Uganda
Uganda has one of the smallest churches in the world
Rolex is a popular street food
Pan-fried grasshoppers are a delicacy in Uganda
Uganda got its name from a translation error
Uganda is home to the legendary ‘Mountains of the Moon’
Over 30 languages are spoken in Uganda
It is the best English-speaking country in Africa
The world’s second-largest freshwater lake is found here
The source of the Nile is found in Uganda
It has the world’s strongest waterfall
Home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population
It’s the best country in the world to see wild chimpanzees
It is the best birding destination in Africa
Lions climb trees in Uganda
The Equator Line Passes through Uganda
1. Uganda has one of the smallest churches in the world
Among the Hidden Gems of Uganda is Bethel Church, one of the smallest churches in the world, located atop Biku Hill in Nebbi Town in the Northwest. Built in 1996, this remarkable worship place is only 2.3 meters wide and 2.4 meters tall, accommodating just three people, including the priest.
This quaint and unique site is a testament to Uganda’s fascinating cultural and historical richness. As one of the Hidden Gems of Uganda, it draws visitors with its charm and serene location, making it a must-see for those exploring the country.
2. Rolex is a popular street food
Uganda’s culinary scene boasts one of its most iconic street foods, the Rolex, a savory treat made by wrapping a vegetable omelet and tomatoes in chapati. First popularized near Makerere University, this delicacy quickly became a beloved snack across the nation.
As one of the Hidden Gems of Uganda, the Rolex exemplifies the vibrant food culture, transforming parking spaces and roadsides into bustling evening food stalls. Its widespread popularity highlights Uganda’s unique approach to fast food and its rich traditions.
3. Pan-fried grasshoppers are A delicacy in Uganda
In Uganda, one of the Hidden Gems of Uganda lies in its unique culinary traditions, such as the pan-fried grasshoppers known as Nsenene. These seasonal delicacies emerge in abundance during the rainy months of November and April, captivating locals with their crunchy texture and rich flavor.
Grasshoppers hold significant cultural value, especially for the Nsenene Clan in the Buganda Kingdom. As part of the Hidden Gems of Uganda, this tradition reflects the deep respect for totems within the country’s 56 tribes. Members of the Nsenene Clan refrain from eating grasshoppers due to the taboo of consuming their totem, a unique practice that adds to Uganda’s cultural richness.
4. Uganda got its name from a translation error
Uganda, one of the fascinating Hidden Gems of Uganda, derives its name from the Buganda Kingdom, which occupies a significant portion of the southern region, including the capital city, Kampala. This historical connection highlights the influence of Buganda on the nation’s identity.
The name “Uganda” originated from interactions between Swahili-speaking guides and European visitors. In Swahili, the prefix u- parallels the Luganda bu-, leading these guides to refer to the Kingdom of Buganda as Uganda, a name that has become emblematic of the Hidden Gems of Uganda.
5. The legendary ‘Mountains of the Moon’
Uganda is home to the majesticRwenzori Mountains. Once thought to be the source of the Nile, these snow-white caps were coined the “Mountains of the Moon” by the ancient Greek astronomer and geographer Ptolemy. Rwenzori has 6 peaks, all above 5000m.
Located just 33 kilometers from the equator, the snow-covered peaks of Mount Stanley are among the Hidden Gems of Uganda. The majestic Margherita Peak, standing at 5109 meters, is the third-highest peak in Africa, following Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya.
Despite its remarkable height, Margherita Peak is considered the most challenging to summit due to its rugged terrain, adding to the allure and adventure of exploring the Hidden Gems of Uganda.
Uganda is a tapestry of linguistic diversity, where over 30 languages are spoken across its diverse landscape. While English and Swahili are the official languages, many people speak Luganda.
7. It is the best English speaking country in Africa
If you visit Uganda and speak English, you will get along fine.
English is the Official Language in Uganda, and its use has increased since the introduction of Universal Primary Education in the country.
Not only that, but according to a study by the World Linguistic Society released in 2017, Ugandans speak the best English in all of Africa, followed by Zambia, South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Ghana, Botswana, Sudan, and Rwanda.
8. The world’s second largest freshwater lake
Although Uganda is landlocked, it is bordered by Lake Victoria. With a surface area of just under 70,000 km², Lake Victoria ranks as the largest tropical lake in the world and the second largest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Superior in North America.
Lake Victoria, one of the Hidden Gems of Uganda, is believed to be about 400,000 years old, formed by the same geological shifts that created the African rift valleys. Its ancient history and natural beauty make it a treasured landmark in the region.
Before European exploration, Lake Victoria was known by various indigenous names. In Uganda, the Baganda people, whose kingdom surrounded the lake, called it Nalubaale, meaning the home of gods. This cultural significance further enhances its status among the Hidden Gems of Uganda.
It is the place where the world’s longest river exit Lake Victoria to commence an epic 6700km journey north to the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt.
The source of the River Nile, situated in Jinja, offers an incredible experience for visitors seeking adventure and relaxation. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Jinja stands out as one of the Hidden Gems of Uganda, just a short 1.5-hour drive from Kampala.
From thrilling activities like white-water rafting, kayaking, and bungee jumping to serene options such as horse riding along the Nile’s shores, Jinja provides endless excitement. A day trip or weekend getaway here truly highlights the charm of the Hidden Gems of Uganda.
The Murchison Falls in Murchison Falls National Park is the world’s most powerful waterfalls. The falls are not very big or wide like some you might have seen before. But think of the world’s longest river which is about 50 meters wide squeezing through the tiny gap of about 8 meters in the Great Rift Valley escarpment before plunging 45 meters below.
Murchison Falls, one of the most iconic Hidden Gems of Uganda, was named by Sir Samuel Baker during his 19th-century exploration of the region. He honored Sir Roderick Murchison, a British geologist who ironically deemed Africa a geologically boring continent, by naming the falls after him.
Over the years, Murchison Falls has attracted notable visitors, including Ernest Hemingway, President Theodore Roosevelt, Sir Winston Churchill, and British royals. This breathtaking site, celebrated as one of the Hidden Gems of Uganda, also served as a filming location for the 1951 classic “The African Queen,” starring Humphrey Bogart.
11. Home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population
Around 50% of the world’s population of mountain gorillas reside in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda. That equates to about 500 mountain gorillas, according to the last official census in 2019, with 24 gorilla families currently habituated for tourism — more than in any other area of Africa. Other Uganda gorillas reside in Mgahinga Gorilla National Parkin the Virunga Mountains.
12. the best country in the world to see chimpanzees
It’s not only the gorillas that make Uganda one of the most sought-after Hidden Gems of Uganda for wildlife enthusiasts. The country is also celebrated as the world’s best destination to see wild chimpanzees, our closest living relatives with whom we share 98.7% of our DNA.
With a total wild chimpanzee population estimated between 170,000 and 300,000, Uganda is home to around 5,000 of these incredible creatures. Their presence highlights the country’s exceptional biodiversity and makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Hidden Gems of Uganda. Kibale Forest in western Uganda is almost to almost 1500 chimps.
13. It is the best birding destination in Africa
Uganda is also the finest birding destination in Africa, with more than 1,090 species recorded in an area the size of Great Britain. The profusion of bird species, from shy rainforest rarities, including many Albertine Rift endemics, to the raptors and songbirds of the savannahs and the pageant of wetland water birds, is unrivalled.
Even Entebbe Botanical Gardens can produce an excellent day’s birding, including species such as Ross’s turaco and African grey parrot that are hard to find elsewhere in East Africa. Pride of place undoubtedly goes to the huge and bizarre shoebill – relatively easily seen both at Murchison Falls and on Mabamba Swamp beside Lake Victoria.
14. Lions climb trees in Uganda
Spotting a wild lion, the king of the Jungle, is always a treat. But can you imagine seeing the biggest, and possibly most clumsy, of the big cats perched high up in a tree?
In Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Ishasha Sector, large prides reliably spend their days in ancient fig trees. They look quite comfortable, too. That is until they want to come down. Let’s say, you won’t confuse any of them with a graceful leopard.
Tree climbing Lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
15. The Equator Line Passes through Uganda
Located 77 kilometers west of Kampala on the Kampala-Masaka road, the Equator monument is a unique Hidden Gem of Uganda. Visitors can stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern, creating a truly memorable experience.
The monument symbolizes Earth’s wonder and offers a great photo opportunity. Surrounded by craft shops and beautiful scenery, it combines education with adventure, making it a highlight among the Hidden Gems of Uganda.
